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Floats, balloons and performers have entertained spectators on Thanksgiving morning for almost a century. Thursday, Nov. 27 marks the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in Manhattan. It will include 32 balloons, three ballooncicles – a balloon and a self-propelled vehicle – 27 floats, 33 clown groups, 11 marching bands, and 26 musical performances.
JOINING THE POD
The Keys Weekly Newspapers is beyond thankful to be Monroe County’s only locally-owned newspaper, covering the amazing people, businesses and happenings in the place we call home. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
Seaquarium, Gulf World closures send rescued animals to the Keys
alex@keysweekly.com
The Florida Keys’ marine mammal population recently saw three new additions and could increase by 11 in the coming months, courtesy of the shuttered Miami Seaquarium and Panama City Beach’s Gulf World Marine Park.
According to U.S. bankruptcy court documents filed Nov. 20, the Dolphin Company, owners of the Seaquarium since 2022, plans to transfer 73 dolphins, penguins, seals, sea lions, birds and reptiles to nine facilities across the U.S. – including two nonprofit facilities in the Upper and Middle Keys.
If current plans proceed unchanged, Key Largo-based Dolphin Life Inc. will add four male bottlenose dolphins to its pod: 19-year-old Zo, 23-year-old Aries, 32-year-old Ripley and 26-year-old Onyx.
Further down on Grassy Key, Dolphin Research Center will add two senior bottlenose dolphins – 49-yearold JJ and 39-year-old Samantha –along with two California sea lions in 14-year-old Raleigh and 21-year-old Clyde. For the first time ever, the center will also provide a home for three harbor seals: 15-year-old Cane, 20-year-old Ace and 33-year-old Baby.
In a separate transaction, Islamorada’s Theater of the Sea on Nov. 21 announced the addition of three former Gulf World dolphins – 39-year-old Sandy, 12-year-old daughter Capri and
9-year-old granddaughter Soleil – following a successful auction bid.
As legal processes are still ongoing, Dolphin Research Center media director Allie Proskovec told the Weekly the facility couldn’t yet discuss the details of the transfer, but clarified in a press release that the majority of animals adopted by the Middle Keys facility are elderly or have special medical conditions.
“Dolphin Research Center has a long history of welcoming marine mammals who need lifelong, specialized care,” said Rita Irwin, DRC’s president and CEO, in the release. “We look forward to opening our arms … and providing them with a forever home.”
According to multiple reports throughout 2025, several of the Dolphin Company’s animals spread across dozens of facilities were sold or auctioned, while others received no interested suitors – and that’s where the two Keys nonprofits stepped in.
Dolphin Life founder Art Cooper said he was contacted by a third-party group managing placement of the remaining animals at appropriate facilities amid the corporation’s mounting closures.
“(They) reached out to us and said, ‘If there are animals at the end of this process that still need placement, would you consider being a permanent home?’” Cooper said. “We said, ‘Of course we would.’ It wasn’t important to us which animals or which genders – we knew we may be
asked to provide a home to the more challenging animals.”
Per the terms outlined in court documents, each facility will be responsible for the associated costs of the animal transfers, but the animals themselves will be donated, not sold. The transfers come at the tail end of a series of marine mammal facility closures around Florida as parent corporation the Dolphin Company declared bankruptcy. While several facilities have already been or are set to be sold, including the Seaquarium, Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach and Marineland Florida in St. Augustine, all but one will undergo redevelopment, forcing the sale or transfer of each park’s animals.
In May, Gulf World closed permanently following multiple animal welfare and building code violations –roughly two months after the Dolphin Company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. In late October, a federal judge overseeing bankruptcy proceedings approved the sale of the property to resort developers By the Sea Resorts. Also approved in late October: the $22.5 million sale of the lease of the Seaquarium property, owned by Miami-Dade County, to development company Terra Group. The company’s proposal for the refreshed property includes a marina, a newly-accredited aquarium without marine mammals, an event space and retail and food vendors, among other items.
Twenty-year-old harbor seal Ace is one of seven animals set to be adopted by Dolphin Research Center. CONTRIBUTED
Senior dolphins Samantha, above, and JJ, right, are expected to join the DRC pod on Grassy Key following bankruptcy court proceedings from the Miami Seaquarium.
ALEX RICKERT
FORMER DEPUTY SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS IN PRISON
Jennifer Ketcham gave then-boyfriend information about narcotics operations
MANDY MILES mandy@keysweekly.com
Aformer sheriff’s deputy who illegally gave her thenboyfriend privileged information about the locations and identities of undercover narcotics officers was sentenced on Nov. 24 to three years prison followed by five years probation.
Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay and Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg both testified at the sentencing hearing in Plantation Key. Both law enforcement leaders asked Judge Sharon Hamilton not to grant Ketcham’s request for a “downward departure” from sentencing guidelines.
A downward departure is a legal term for a court imposing a sentence that is less severe than what is recommended by standard sentencing guidelines.
Ketcham’s attorney, Dustin Hunter, had requested 84 days in jail and credit for time served, which would have resulted in no jail or prison time for Ketcham. The attorney argued, and a psychiatrist testified, that Ketcham suffered from post traumatic stress disorder that had contributed to her illegal actions.
Prosecutor Colleen Dunne, of the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office, asked the judge to consider the timeline of Ketcham’s PTSD diagnosis.
“What’s to say that the diagnosis wasn’t caused by her own actions?”
Dunne said. “She started seeing a therapist a year after her arrest. I’m not questioning the doctor, but I think the timeline is important. The state would submit that she brought on the condition. She was facing prison for her egregious actions. Who wouldn’t have PTSD? For 14 months, she regularly, on a daily basis, would pass information to an 18-year-old boyfriend. It all demonstrates a profound breach of trust. She was putting the officers she worked with at risk and damaged public confidence in law enforcement. Now she needs to be treated like everyone else.”
The judge apparently agreed.
When handing down the sentence, Judge Hamilton said, “Ms. Ketcham, this gives me no pleasure. You took an oath to protect the citizens and visitors of Monroe County, but your actions did the exact opposite. Your text messages
show a complete lack of character.”
At the sentencing, the court also heard from one of Ketcham’s former fellow deputies, Detective Sgt. Jenna Moeller. Ketcham shared Moeller’s photo and location with her then-boyfriend, Ryan Hernandez, while Moeller was working as an undercover narcotics officer.
“I never imagined that a threat to my safety would come from inside my own agency,” Moeller said. “The disclosure of my photo, my identity and my location left me feeling exposed, vulnerable and betrayed.”
Ramsay told the judge, “This is a really difficult situation. It’s shocking to see the image of an undercover officer sent to a drug dealer by another officer. It was shocking to see that tags were run through our database on vehicles to confirm they were undercover narcotics vehicles.”
Ramsay added, “Within days of Ms. Ketcham sharing the image of a confidential informant who was working with law enforcement with her boyfriend, that individual was brutally beaten and had to be airlifted to Miami. Ms. Ketcham was helping her boyfriend, a drug dealer, instead of preventing and deterring crime and getting drugs off our streets. We’ll never know the full extent of the damage that was done.”
Ramsay asked the judge not to grant Ketcham’s request for a downward departure in her sentencing decision.
Brandenburg told the judge about a time that Ketcham apparently tipped off her boyfriend about an impending
drug raid on a home on Seidenberg Avenue in Key West.
“The target left the residence just before our SWAT team arrived, and magically avoided them. Ms. Ketcham was on the phone to the target location, where her boyfriend was, during our approach. Had that subject chosen fight instead of flight, someone could have been seriously hurt or killed. Ms. Ketcham betrayed the trust of the Key West Police Department, all law enforcement and this community.”
Ketcham also took the stand and detailed the sacrifices she had made to attend the police academy at night while working during the day. In that time, her marriage failed.
Ketcham also described traumatic episodes while she was a deputy, including a fatal boat fire and a person who committed suicide while she was on the scene.
Dunne confirmed with Ketcham that the sheriff’s office had provided mental health services to all officers involved, which Ketcham took part in.
“The state I was in is a person I don’t even recognize now,” Ketcham said during her sentencing hearing. “I’m very sorry for all the things that happened and it’s something I’ll have to work through for the rest of my life.”
Once the judge announced the sentence, Ketcham was taken into custody and removed from the courtroom in Plantation Key.
She was sentenced to 37 months prison followed by five years of probation. The judge also permanently revoked her law enforcement license.
Former Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputy Jennifer Ketcham was sentenced Nov. 24 to three years in prison followed by five years probation. CONTRIBUTED
High school student picked up; construction workers detained
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Federal agents continue to maintain a strong, visible presence in the Upper and Middle Florida Keys as more individuals are seen being detained and sent away.
On Nov. 21, a Customs and Border Protection helicopter circled the air in the Upper Keys as agents conducted stops along U.S. 1 on several vehicles — and even a bus. The activity began around 6:30 a.m. and concluded around 9 a.m. The agents and their vehicles, some marked and others unmarked, could be seen at the Key Largo Winn Dixie.
Some witnesses say the helicopter was circling Key Largo School. The activity on Friday came on the final day of class before Thanksgiving break.
From the ground, local resident Nick Rodriguez videorecorded a few encounters where agents pulled over vehicles. One motorist who was picked up reportedly didn’t have their driver’s license with them, even though they had legal status.
“They’re stopping working vans, landscaping trucks and construction vehicles,” Rodriguez told Keys Weekly.
It’s been a common scene the past few weeks in Key Largo, where agents have pulled over numerous vehicles during the early morning hours. They’ve staked out near Key Largo School as kids bike to school and as buses and parents drop off kids. The presence has especially been seen by
Federal agents at the Winn Dixie in Key Largo the morning of Nov. 21. NICK RODRIGUEZ/Contributed
motorists the past few Friday mornings.
One stop by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol on a white van on Nov. 7 led to a brief lockdown at KLS after one of the occupants fled.
“There has to be a better way to do this operation rather than to design it specifically to take advantage of the slowdown in front of my child’s school every morning,” said one concerned KLS parent.
There was a report on Nov. 17 of federal agents stopping a vehicle with a Coral Shores student on his way to school. An adult family member, too, was detained by agents and taken away. School officials confirmed to the Keys Weekly that the 16-year-old Coral Shores student was detained. It’s the first report of a Monroe County student being picked up by federal agents.
Foley said. “Our guys have no criminal background. It didn’t fit the profile of what kind of the people the administration was seeking to target.”
Foley added they’re working with immigration attorneys to assist their workers through the matter, whether it be getting them the right type of visa and getting them released in cases where they’re legal and have the necessary paperwork.
“We’ve now almost lost two full crews of highly-skilled employees who’ve been doing this for a number of years,” Foley said. “The impact is detrimental. It’s slowed the work to a snail’s pace on the job sites.”
Moving to Marathon
Days later, agent activity increased in Marathon, as locals commuting along the Grassy Key stretch noted no fewer than six Customs and Border Patrol vehicles parked along the route.
Hours later, Grassy Flats Resort owner Matt Sexton took to social media to describe his morning after a two-year employee had been detained.
“We have a third party payroll company that we have been working with for several years to … ensure all appropriate employment rules with the government are being followed,” he said. “This person has a legal work visa, a driver’s license, a temp social security card, pays taxes just like the rest of us and feeds breakfast to our community six days a week with a phenomenal work ethic and attitude that is hard to find these days.”
According to Sexton, his employee was unaware her legal status had changed – even though she’d reached out to immigration attorneys to learn more about her case after reading that protections for citizens of her native country had changed.
And recent immigration enforcement activity rocked the Upper Keys Marine Construction company after six of their employees were stopped and detained by federal agents this month. Jill Foley, company owner with her husband, Adam, said two of their workers were picked up in early November. She said both are longtime workers, have Social Security cards and pay taxes. They were even screened by the private-gated and highly-secured Ocean Reef community.
The following week, four more of their workers were picked up by federal agents. Again, Foley said, the employees had either Social Security cards or visas and were vetted by Ocean Reef security.
“We spent that second week trying to figure out what was going on,”
“This person has become a member of our family and this morning was taken without doing anything wrong, the government just decided that the deal they originally gave her was no longer valid,” Sexton wrote.
Originally detained in Marathon and scheduled to be transferred to a Krome Avenue facility in Homestead, Sexton said his employee may reportedly face a two-month wait to appear before a judge.
“It’s a holiday week and I’m at a loss for what to do in so many ways,” he said. “If you want to b**** and tell me to hire someone legal, my response to you is I did.
“The system changed and our local economy and fragile workforce will collapse if this continues to happen in our community.”
— Alex Rickert contributed to this report
A U.S. Customs & Border Protection helicopter, like the one pictured here, was spotted circling the skies of Key Largo the morning of Nov. 21. BENJAMIN APPLEBAUM/DHS
SCHEDULE OF
Tuesday, Dec. 2nd 5pm - 8pm
Dec. 3rd 5pm - 8pm
Dec. 4th 5pm - 8pm
Dec 5th 3:30pm - 10pm
Dec. 6th 10am - 8pm
Dec. 7th 8am - 12noon
EXCELLENCE IN REAL ESTATE MLKAR honors 2025 standouts
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
embers of the Marathon and Lower Keys Association of Realtors (MLKAR) gathered to celebrate the top-notch pros in Middle Keys real estate with an installation and awards banquet on Nov. 19 at the Marathon Yacht Club. Honoring the service of the organization’s outgoing board, members recognized top performers and impressive newcomers to the field before recognizing outgoing CEO Wayne Carter for his service to the group since 2013.
1. MLKAR thanks its 2025 board. From left: Aimee Kornetti, Nate Bartlett, Kristen Brenner, Lynn Goodwin, Katie Carrillo, Jass Tremblay, Milly Perez, Lynny Del Gaizo and Alexia Mann.
2. Attorney Patrick Stevens, left, wins the Affiliate of the Year award, presented by 2024 honoree Mel Montagne.
3. 2026 board president Alexia Mann takes the gavel.
4. Aly Bainbridge, left, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, passes on the honor to 2025 winner Nate Bartlett, center with MLKAR CEO Wayne Carter.
5. Lynny Del Gaizo, center, earns the 2025 Realtor of the Year award, presented by 2024 winner Stephany Duvall, left, and MLKAR CEO Wayne Carter.
6. Outgoing board president Lynny Del Gaizo passes the gavel to 2026 board president Alexia Mann.
7. Kristen Brenner, left, presents an appreciation gift to CEO Wayne Carter for 12 years of service to MLKAR.
8. The MLKAR 2026 board of directors. Top row, from left: Mary Conklin, Kristen Brenner, Katie Carrillo, Milly Perez, Lynny Del Gaizo, Lynn Goodwin, Aimee Kornetti and Lisa Cattran. Bottom row: Jen Davis, Kasey Platt, Alexia Mann and Nate Bartlett.
9. Milly Perez will serve as the 2026 presidentelect for the association.
10. 2025 board president Lynny Del Gaizo opens the evening’s festivities. Photos by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
COMMERCE CORNEr
The Friends of the Islamorada Area State Parks or FIASP is the official citizen support organization of seven State Parks in the upper and middle keys. As one of the longest running “Friends Group” organizations, over the years they have provided support to virtually every aspect of operations across seven state parks, from Curry Hammock to Windley Key.
The Friends’ have helped with improving visitor services, funding the acquisition of park amenities, enhancing park protection and hard-working volunteers from FIASP continue to assist with ongoing resource management efforts by providing the energy, enthusiasm and effort needed to help with beach clean-up events as well as other special events. One such beloved tradition is the Lignumvitae Christmas Friend Raiser, a festive way to enjoy the beauty of the islands while giving back to the parks we all cherish.
Lignumvitae Christmas Friend Raiser
Saturday, December 6
$25 donation includes round trip transportation to the Island and Admission to the park
Inc.
$7 Menu
• Chicken wings, chicken livers and More!
• 32 beers on tap 1/2 off 2pm - 3pm
* $2 Pints of Yuengling and Bud Light!
BREAKFAST SERVED UNTIL 2PM
• Unique & interesting menu
• $3 Mimosas • $5 Breakfast Shots
LUNCH & DINNER
• New Sandwich Options
• Diver Speared Local Fish
• Prime Rib • Lobster • Cook Y
Great Seafood Selections
SUSHI
Toro
Fresh Uni arrives on
SCHOOL DISTRICT HOOKED BACK ON PHONICS
Superintendent reports clean audit; grad rate needs improvement
Monroe County schools are reverting to an old, effective tool in phonics programs, said Heidi Roberts, literacy coordinator for the district.
During a Nov. 18 school board meeting at Coral Shores High School, Roberts described a program called Old School Phonics with New School Impacts. Working with the University of Florida Literacy Institute, the school district is using a structured system to teach phonics in kindergarten through second grade.
“Reading is a learned skill, not a natural one,” she said. “We are teaching 4-year-olds how to read and spell.”
Reading intervention teachers in the district can use the same system in higher grades with students who have reading challenges. Roberts showed videos of young learners sounding out words of four or more syllables. The report included positive testimonials from teachers and students.
Each lesson includes eight activity steps and each instructional activity is delivered over two school days for 30 minutes per day.
The University of Florida program is funded by a donation from the author James Patterson, a longtime resident of Palm Beach. He is known for his support of children’s literacy programs.
Roberts talked about the “pendulum” of education swinging back toward more traditional methods of teaching students how to read. School board member John Dick said he wishes that other areas of the curriculum would go back to the old ways.
More information on early learning came from Sandi Bisceglia of the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade and Monroe. After reduced state funding in 2025, the coalition is coming back as one of the top legislative priorities for 2026.
There are 38 early learning centers supported by the coalition in the county. Although they take care of young children all day long, the focus in these centers is on learning, not just babysitting. Each center follows a sophisticated curriculum, receives professional support and must pass evaluations and inspections.
More than 1,000 children from ages 1 through 4 are in programs throughout the Keys. Pre-kindergarten programs significantly improve the odds of success in school and high school graduation. More information is at www.elcmdm.org.
Schools Superintendent Ed Tierney told the board that the state auditor general delivered a clean financial audit for the district. The auditor general was specifically asked to examine the accounts of the school lunch programs across the district and reported no discrepancies in those programs. Board member Mindy Conn said it is difficult to keep down the cost of food to the students and families while the costs to the district continue to rise.
The newly approved salary schedule will provide raises for district employees starting on Dec 15.
Tierney delivered his promised 90-day report to the board. He praised the Keys communities and their support for education. He has been busy talking to “more teachers than I can count” along with staff, community and government leaders, and parents. Looking for areas of improvement, Tierney said the district falls below Florida’s average graduation rate, especially
among English-language learners and students with disabilities.
Patrick Lefere, executive director of operations and planning, provided an update on the Reynolds School renovation after receiving comments during a special community meeting. Plans have been changed to improve the façade and make it blend in better with the Key West neighborhood. New design changes added more brick and less stucco. The grounds will have more of a Key West look with different materials and vegetation. The project is ready to start the development of the final construction documents with a planning budget of $11 million.
Conn again called for an overview of the planned threepart move of staff and resources in Key West that includes Reynolds School, Bruce Hall and an administrative building. Tierney suggested a workshop where more details are available and everyone has a voice.
The board approved an allocation for additional design services for the Founders Park baseball field. Coordination with the Village of Islamorada continues, but plans for the renovation of the building on the first-base line have not started. That work won’t happen on the same timeline as the rest of the project.
The board rotated its officers and assignments and elected Dick as chairman. This is his fifth time serving as board chair over a 20year career on the school board. He does not plan to stand for reelection. Darren Horan will serve a second term as vice chair.
REEL RECS
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “24 Hour Party People” (2002)
Why: What an amazing confluence of director (Michael Winterbottom), lead actor (Steve Coogan) and subject (the Manchester music scene from the late 1970s-early 1990s). Coogan is Tony Wilson, a real guy who makes lightweight feature TV stories about northern England, when he happens to be one of the few people at an early Sex Pistols show. This inspires him to create a record label, Factory Records, and a legendary club, the Hacienda, where he promotes bands like Joy Division (which became New Order) and Happy Mondays. Watching things explode in a good way and then a bad way makes me simultaneously envious of those who witnessed that scene and grateful to have missed the chaos. And it’s got one hell of a soundtrack. Full disclosure: this movie is about sex and drugs and rock ’n roll (and punk and New Wave) – it’s rated R for a reason. Where: This film is available on Kanopy, the library’s streaming app. How: You can browse and request DVDs online by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. To view our collection of streaming movies and TV, go to kanopy.com/ keyslibraries and set up an account with your library card. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? keyslibraries.org/ contact-us.
Recommended by: Nancy Klingener, community affairs manager.
See previous Reel Recs at keyslibraries.org/post/reel-recs.
FRANK DERFLER
www.keysweekly.com
FLORIDA HOUSE COMMITTEE ADVANCES PROPERTY TAX PROPOSALS
JIM McCARTHY jim@keysweekly.com
Various property tax exemption and phaseout proposals advanced through a Florida House committee during a four-hour meeting in Tallahassee on Nov. 20.
In total, seven House joint resolutions and one bill were reported favorable by the 36-member committee of Republicans and Democrats. Approvals by the committee set up talks in the upcoming legislative session on which property tax proposals would appear on the November 2026 ballot.
House joint resolutions would ultimately need voter approval since property taxes are embedded in the state Constitution. Considered to be one of the more comprehensive proposals, House Resolution 201 by Republican state Rep. Kevin Steele eliminates all nonschool property taxes on homesteads. Like most resolutions, the proposal maintains school funding across Florida and locks law enforcement funds at 2024-25 or 2025-26 levels, whichever is higher. House committee members voted 34-10 on the measure.
Then there’s a proposal by Republican state Rep. Monique Miller to phase out nonschool property taxes over 10 years. House resolution 203 would increase homestead exemptions by $100,000 annually beginning in 2027. Most property owners in Florida would reach nearzero nonschool property taxes by 2030, giving local governments time to adjust their revenue structures. The proposal was voted out of committee via 24-10 vote.
And Republican Rep. Demi Busatta’s House Resolution 209 would link homestead exemptions to property insurance. Voted favorable by the committee, via 24-9 vote, the proposal would create a $200,000 homestead exemption for properties with comprehensive, multiperil insurance. Rep. Juan Carlos Porras’ House Resolution 205 would provide nonschool property tax exemption for homeowners 65 and older. It was voted out of the committee favorable, 24-9. Rep. Shane Abbott’s proposal to exempt 25% of the assessed homestead value after existing exemptions was voted out of the committee favorable, 24-10.
The only piece of legislation pertaining to property taxes, Rep. Jon Albert’s House Bill 215, allows any accrued Save Our Homes benefit, the difference between the assessed value and the just or fair market value of a homestead, held by each spouse to transfer to a new home after marriage, up to the existing $500,000 limitation. Save Our Homes is a constitutional amendment passed to cap annual increases on the assessed value of homestead properties to a maximum of 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index.
The bill would also require a two-thirds vote among Florida municipalities to raise the millage rate. Legislation moved out of the committee with a 24-10 vote. The bill would need the state Legislature’s approval and the governor’s signature to take effect.
Committee leadership highlighted how ad valorem tax collections have risen 46% from 2020 to 2024 — from $37 billion to $55 billion.
“Local government property tax is increasing at an unsustainable rate and is causing undue financial burden on Florida’s citizens, homeowners and businesses,” said House committee chairman Toby Overdorf.
Concerns are growing among Florida fire chiefs, with proposals only protecting law enforcement and not fire rescue and EMS. In addition, fire chiefs say, costs for new equipment are rising; fire engines alone increased from $550,000 to $1.3 million in the past six years.
“Without an established alternative funding source, there will be a direct and unavoidable impact on service delivery, which could include longer response times, possible staffing reductions that would put the lives of the citizens unnecessarily at risk,” said Tripp Barrs, Treasure Island fire chief and Florida Fire Chiefs Association president.
Florida League of Cities and Florida Association of Counties representatives said the proposals offer no revenue replacement mechanism for local municipalities. Concerns were also shared regarding bond ratings and $2-plus billion in existing general obligation debt.
The seven House resolutions and House Bill 215 were referred to the State Affairs Committee for more discussion.
Thanksgiving Day Service Noon Followed by lunch
St. Columba Christmas Bazaar
Wine & Cheese Sneak Peek $5.00 December 5th 5:00-7:00 December 6th 9:00-1:00
Decorations, Gifts, Baked Goods & More!
St. Columba Episcopal Church 451 West 52nd St, Marathon Fl Traditional Service 9am & Contemporary 11am
Award recipients from Marathon (above), Lower Keys and Key West (center) and Upper Keys (bottom) gather with officials from the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to receive their awards from the 2025 Paradise for Good grants program. CONTRIBUTED
RAINING CHECKS
Community Foundation of the Florida Keys showers nonprofits with nearly $900K in grants
At three community gatherings in Key West, Marathon, and Key Largo last week, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys (CFFK) awarded a record-breaking $895,721 to 73 nonprofit organizations serving Keys residents. Individual awards ranged from $1,500 to $30,000. This marks the largest total ever distributed through the foundation’s annual In Paradise for Good community grants program.
In 2020, the foundation awarded $144,500 to 27 organizations. Since then, the program has grown each year, fueled by donors.
“This program embodies what it means to be part of a community and particularly to be in the community foundation ecosystem,” said Elizabeth Brown, CFFK’s president and CEO. “The increase in our impact is made possible by a collection of community giving, including from our donor-advised fundholders, our regional advisory councils and our legacy donors who chose to leave a gift to benefit future generations. Together we can make an impact larger than any of us could make on our own.”
This year’s applications revealed a wide range of needs and opportunities across the Keys. Many nonprofits reported reduced federal, state and municipal funding. Others are looking to grow capacity and expand their programs to reach more residents, often through partnering with other organizations.
“We are proud to support the full spectrum of organizations that make the Keys a thriving community — the arts, environmental steward-
ship, youth development, education, food access, animal welfare, cultural heritage and health services,” said Brown. “A community is strongest when all these pieces are healthy and interconnected.”
The diversity of this year’s grantees reflects that vision. Programs funded include everything from coral restoration and youth marine science camps to arts programs for seniors, food access initiatives, housing stability efforts, cultural performance access, animal welfare services and programs that strengthen family wellbeing.
The foundation will open its second-chance grants catalog in the coming weeks for requests that were not funded. Donors will be able to review unfunded proposals and help fill remaining community needs. The catalog will be shared with donors and posted at cffk.org, where anyone can contribute.
The Florida Keys Future Fund is
the foundation’s primary funding source for this grants program. To help increase next year’s grants, longtime supporters William and Pattye Monroe have offered a $120,000 endof-year matching challenge for donations to the Florida Keys Future Fund. Every dollar given will be matched, doubling the impact.
Grants are awarded through a competitive review process led by the foundation’s grants committee. A diverse group of volunteers from all regions of the Keys evaluates applications on their alignment with the foundation’s mission of making the Keys a better place to live now and in the future; demonstrated community need and measurable outcomes; organizational capacity and project readiness; and plans to sustain the project’s effect in the future.
Only IRS-recognized nonprofits and faith-based organizations in good standing may apply. Projects must serve residents of the Florida Keys.
This year’s grants were made possible through contributions from the Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam Fund, Banyan Grove Endowment Fund, Betsey Blades Selig Memorial Endowment Fund, Driftwood Fund, Jim Speake’s Key West Fund, Garlo Keeley Fund, Loreen and Robert Ramey Charitable Fund, Jack M. Paul Fund, Miani Sassy Cat Fund, Ron and Joyce Burd Fund, Shirley Freeman and Harvey Server Environmental Fund, Trapani Family Fund for the Keys, Tunie Hamlen Charitable Fund and the Virgil and Marjory Bumgarner Fund for the Visually Impaired.
Permanent legacy funds contributing included the Baker Viana Performing Arts Endowment, Emily Boyd Lowe Music Endowment Fund, Florence Fox-Loeb Key West Music and Theatre Arts Endowment Fund, Jack Baron Visual Arts Endowment Fund, and the William C. Euler Jr. and Andrew F. Oates Jr. Fund. — Contributed
This year’s 73 grantees represent a broad crosssection of the organizations that make the Keys a strong and resilient place to live. The full list of grantees appears below.
A Positive Step Inc.
AH of Monroe County Inc.
Anchors Aweigh Club Inc.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Keys Area Inc.
Burton Memorial United Methodist Church
Christina's Courage Inc.
CoastLove, Inc.
Conch Republic Marine Army Inc.
Coral Restoration Foundation
Crane Point Museum & Nature Center
Diocese Of Southeast Florida Saint Columba
Episcopal Church
Domestic Abuse Shelter
Florida Keys Area Health Education Center
Florida Keys Children's Shelter Inc.
Florida Keys Community Concert Band
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition
Florida Keys History & Discovery Foundation Inc.
Florida Keys Outreach Coalition
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
Good Health Clinic
Growing Hope Foundation
Habitat for Humanity of Key West and the Lower Florida Keys
Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys
Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys
Hometown Key West
I.CARE
Independence Cay
Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation Inc.
Just Older Youth
Key West Art Center
Key West Preschool Cooperative
Key West Wildlife Center, Inc
Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR)
Keys Community Church
Keys Community School of the Arts Inc
Keys Health Ready Coalition Inc.
Keys Last Stand
Keys to Be the Change
Kids Come First In the Florida Keys Inc.
Literacy Volunteers of America
Marathon Community Theatre
Marathon Wild Bird Center Inc.
Marathon Yacht Club Educational Foundation
MarineLab/Marine Resources Development Foundation
Metropolitan Community Church - Cooking with Love
Monroe Assoc for ReMARCable Citizens
Morada Way Arts & Cultural District
Mote Marine Laboratory
Navy League Key West Council
Pigeon Key Foundation
Presents in Paradise
Queer Keys
Red Barn Theatre
Reef Relief
Ruckus Inspires Inc.
Samuel's House Inc
Seacamp Association Inc.
SOS Foundation
South Florida Symphony Orchestra
Special Olympics Florida Monroe County
St Justin Martyr Catholic Parish
St. James Children's Center
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Tennessee Williams Theatre
The Educational Coalition for Monroe County
The Salvation Army
The Studios of Key West
Tropic Cinema
United Way of Collier and the Keys Inc.
Upper Keys Humane Society Inc.
Wesley House Family Services Inc.
Womankind
Dynamic Trio”
FRESH SHADES, NEW SPACE
Wensel family opens Stevens Paint & Blinds in Marathon
JEN ALEXANDER www.keysweekly.com
For Jereme Wensel, what began as a routine purchase at Stevens Paint Store in Corning, New York evolved into a multistate family enterprise.
Wensel, who was a young painter and frequent customer, now owns the store’s original legacy and has successfully expanded it, most recently opening the third Stevens Paint & Blinds location, in Marathon.
The expansion remains fundamentally a family affair, with ownership split three ways among himself, his wife Kelly and their daughter Mazzy.
“I was a painter for a really long time, and I always bought my paint at Stevens Paint Store, which is a Benjamin Moore paint store,” said Wensel. “The previous owner wanted to retire, and he asked if my wife and I would want to buy the store and the rest is history.”
Newly married right out of high school, Jereme and Kelly thought it was a good idea, so they purchased the original shop. Early success led to the first major expansion, which was adding window treatments and changing the name to Stevens Paint & Blinds. Recognizing they were pretty good at it, they soon opened a second location in Vestal, New York – and they still operate both Empire State locations today.
But while their business was thriving in the north, the Wensels' hearts had always belonged to the Florida coast.
“We’ve always vacationed on the coast,” Kelly Wensel said. “We have four kids, and always spent our Christmas in Florida. The decision to expand here was a natural extension of that long-standing family tradition.”
Their personal love for the Keys became a business prospect serendipitously during a shutter installation back in New York. The customer, who owned Airbnbs in Marathon, suggested they consider the island community for their next store.
After conducting a market analysis and learning that Marathon lacked a Benjamin Moore store, the family made the commitment. They came down for a week in 2023, found a location and decided they wanted to spend the majority of their time here.
The new Marathon storefront is ambitious, occupying 3,000 square feet and operating as two stores in one, with a full paint section and a dedicated window treatment showroom. Kelly Wensel oversees the paint side, while Jereme manages the window treatments.
The family has a dedicated team handling their New York operations, allowing them the flexibility to be present in Florida. Daughter Mazzy has
taken on the role of store manager for the new Keys location. She works alongside a trusted employee with more than five years of experience.
The Wensels were prepared to open their doors sooner, but faced a challenging year of delays and red tape. Despite the setbacks, they officially opened two weeks ago, focused on their core business philosophy.
“We offer superior products and small-town customer service,” said Jereme. “One of the things that helps … is the relationships that we build with members of the community. When you come to our store, we always make sure we’re getting you the right product for the right price.”
The Wensels are keen to stress the value of shopping locally, actively challenging the idea that larger stores mean cheaper prices. By operating as a local, family-owned business, they ensure their revenue stays in the Marathon community. This commitment to local engagement is already
visible; the family has joined both the Marathon Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce, actively participating in community events they describe as much more "alive" than the equivalents in their New York hometowns.
"Our customers, they aren't really just customers, they’re our neighbors and our friends,” Kelly said. “We live in the community and we get to know a lot of people through our Rotary and Chamber of Commerce involvement that we are really proud to be a part of."
With the delays behind them, the Wensel family is ready to serve the Florida Keys. From their initial vision as newlyweds to now managing three thriving locations, the Wensels have cultivated a legacy built on family, hard work and a genuine connection to every community they join. Visit the new store at 236 Sombrero Beach Road in Marathon, next to the Brass Monkey, or visit stevenspaintandblindsfl.com.
Kelly, left, Steven and Mazzy Wensel are the local family behind Stevens Paint & Blinds, now open in Marathon. JEN ALEXANDER/Keys Weekly
The Wensel family poses in front of Stevens Paint & Blinds, loaded with everything from Benjamin Moore paints to sprayers, brushes and window treatments of all kinds.
HAWKS CAY RESORT
Pickleball Extravaganza
Sunday, December 14th
Kick off the day with friendly competition as 16 mixed teams face off in a fast-paced daytime tournament under palm trees and warm Florida sunshine.
10am - 2pm
Pickleball Tournament 16 Mixed M/F Teams $75 per team
Scan to Sign Up
Don’t let a high-rate loan gobble up your budget. Refinance with Keys FCU and carve away those extra costs! Lower Rates. Local Service. Real savings to be thankful for.
100% of proceeds from both events benefit Florida Keys SPCA
An Event
When the sun goes down, the fun turns up at our GLO Pickleball PARTY — a neon-lit night of high-energy games, a live DJ, and plenty of food and beverages for players and spectators alike. Let’s rally!
7pm - 9pm GLOW Pickleball Party & Play Up to 80 Players $50 per individual
Alan M. Nieder, MD
RECOVERY TO RELEASE
Turtle Hospital sends tumor-free Molly back to the sea
Onlookers gathered to celebrate a massive story of rescue and recovery as the Turtle Hospital released loggerhead turtle Molly from Higgs Beach on the morning of Nov. 25.
Molly was rescued in early August off Key West by a local charter boat captain who discovered her weak, anemic and entangled in a stone crab trap line. She was covered in barnacles and suffering from a massive fibropapilloma tumor on her shoulder. The captain contacted the Turtle Hospital, and Molly was transported to the facility via ambulance to begin her critical care.
Upon arrival, the medical team at the Turtle Hospital began intensive treatment. Molly’s regimen
Molly was released back into the ocean the morning of Nov. 25 at Higgs Beach in Key West as an enthusiastic crowd swallowed the lump of emotion in their throat and bid the sea turtle a safe voyage. ABIGAIL EMERSON/Overseas Media Group
included broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, vitamins, a healthy diet of mixed seafood and multiple surgeries to remove her numerous tumors. The colossal tumor on her shoulder weighed in at 10.1 pounds, making Molly the first loggerhead of her size to survive such a large removal surgery, the hospital said.
Molly beat the odds, and videos of her rescue and recovery garnered more than 80 million views on social media. Fans from across the country traveled to visit her during her stay at the hospital.
“Her story has profoundly increased public awareness and love for sea turtles and the challenges they face,” the hospital said in a press release.
For her release, Molly was fitted with a small satellite transmitter tag. The public is able to follow Molly’s journey at sea; the link to track her progress will be posted on the Turtle Hospital website (www. turtlehospital.org) and on their social media platforms.
— Keys Weekly staff report
TOUR DE GRATITUDE
Berkshire Hathaway brightens first responders’ days with gift cards & pies
ALEX RICKERT alex@keysweekly.com
First responders across the Florida Keys’ chain of islands received a welcome visit from the team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate Knight & Gardner Realty on Nov. 19. Stopping at every police, fire and EMS station and each school resource officer serving Keys schools, BHHS representatives hand-delivered Publix gift cards and pumpkin pies for the second annual BHHS Cares Day.
The annual tradition is made possible by a partnership with the Edward B. and Joan T. Knight Foundation, established in 2018 to honor the late couple’s legacy by supporting charitable, religious, educational and
medical facilities that encourage the development of strong, moral, educated youth.
“This annual tradition is one of the most meaningful days of the year for us,” the company wrote in a press release. “It’s our way of saying thank you to the incredible men and women who protect and serve our Florida Keys community every single day. … We’re proud to stand alongside our local first responders, our Florida Keys neighbors and the amazing community that calls these islands home.”
Stops in Marathon for the Berkshire Hathaway team on BHHS Cares Day included Stanley Switlik Elementary School (1), the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Marathon Substation (2) and the Trauma Star hangar (3). Photos by Alex Rickert and contributed images
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f you haven’t seen Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion (Dale Coburn, pictured) yet, there are still two final chances to catch
‘The Wizard of Oz’ on stage at Marathon Community Theatre this Friday and Saturday, Nov. 28 and 29, both at 8 p.m. And if the silver screen is more your style, follow the Yellow Brick Road next door to the Marathon Cinema to see ‘Wicked: For Good,’ the epic conclusion to the two-part film prequel of the classic movie. For tickets, visit marathontheater.org or marathoncinema.com.
NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly
STARFISH SERVES UP BREAKFAST & LUNCH
At long last, Marathon has the answer to the yearsold question of every local driving along U.S. 1: ‘What’s going into the old Stout’s?’ On Nov. 24, local dignitaries and the Marathon Chamber of Commerce gathered with business owners Bradford Sinclair and Lauren Aguayo to celebrate the grand opening of Starfish Kitchen at 8349 Overseas Highway. Backed by the sounds of a steel drum and DJ, and with red, white and blue stilt walkers inviting drivers from the Overseas Highway, the restaurant celebrated its first official day of serving breakfast and lunch. Extensive menu items range from steak-and-eggs plates, pancakes and waffles to benedicts, omelettes, burgers and sandwiches – with a ‘healthy bites’ corner of the menu for the calorie-conscious. The restaurant is open daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
SHOP & SHINE
Lighthouse glows over local vendors at Faro Blanco
String lights and shopping were the name of the game at Faro Blanco Marina as the Marathon Business and Professional Women lined the docks with vendors on Nov. 22 for their annual Sip & Shop event. Offering gifts from glassware to jewelry, monogrammed apparel and painted coconuts, the booths kept guests busy as they awaited one of the surest holiday signs in the Middle Keys: the lighting of the iconic Faro Blanco Lighthouse.
1. Diana Naylor displays her handmade Stones & Glass Jewelry.
2. Big Pine Key’s Tammy Brisson showcases her handpainted holiday coconuts with Cocokeynuts.
3. A blazing Faro Blanco lighthouse tells all by land and sea: The holidays are here in Marathon.
4. The BPW welcoming crew works the front gate. From
5. The Giliberti family takes in the festivities.
6. Marathon Middle School basketball cheerleaders sling their fundraiser ornaments.
7. Santa Claus and his elves give some North Pole photo ops at the newly-lit lighthouse.
8. Kim Crouthamel sells painted glassware with Starfish Designs.
9. Alexia, left, and Kira Mann have a wide variety of gifts from the Owl Book Store.
left: Kristin Carlson, Joy Smith, C.M. Bishop and Cami Holdinga.
Photos by Alex Rickert and Natalie Danko
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RIVALRY REPEAT
Marathon holds off Coral Shores in soccer showdown
TRACY McDONALD www.keysweekly.com
Coral Shores traveled to Marathon on Nov. 17 in hopes of avenging their season-opener loss five days prior. In that matchup, the Hurricanes were without several key players who were still participating on their regional-qualifying cross country team. Their return did shift the scales in the game, but not quite enough to overcome a determined Dolphin team.
A back-and-forth battle played out on the pitch, with multiple opportunities for both teams to score, but two sets of staunch defenders kept it at 0-all until freshman Fin forward Adiel Nunez blasted a shot past Coral Shores goalkeeper Zachary Swenson to take the lead. Swenson and Marathon keeper Tiago Rivero were both peppered the entire game, with each making some incredible saves. Rivero was credited with more than a dozen. The 1-0 score remained until the second half, when Nunez struck again and it looked like Marathon would be able to sit on the lead and ride it out.
Hurricane senior Alaric Rodriguez had other plans, though. Fresh off his final cross country season, Rodriguez looked fresh compared to most. He used that advantage to out-hustle Marathon’s back line, catching Rivero off guard with a well-placed shot that narrowed the Dolphins’ lead by half. Coral Shores picked up the tempo and fired away at the Fins’ goal. Rivero, in a display of fantastic athleticism, denied one after another, and Marathon held on to the lead to win 2-1. The Hurricanes will have one more shot at the Fins on Jan. 15 in a rare third matchup of the season.
1. Coral Shores goalkeeper Zachary Swenson stops Bryan Chumil’s shot late in the first half of the game.
2. Zachary Swenson dives for Adiel Nunez’s well-placed kick.
3. Marathon’s Bryan Chumil (3) and Coral Shores’ Joel Lopez Suazo fight for control.
4. Jayden Rosete (5) and Colton Connolly (6) battle for possession.
5. Hurricane forward Alaric Rodriguez carries the ball upfield.
6. Jamie Cary (24) heads the ball away from Marathon’s Adiel Nunez (7).
TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly
FAST TRACK TO SPRING!
Receive essential info & personal guidance to begin your degree in January!
SHELF HELP
Staff from your Monroe County Public Library recommend some of their favorites from the collection.
What: “Water Moon” by Samantha Sotto Yambao
Why: One of my favorite reads this year! A hidden pawnshop lies behind a cozy ramen restaurant in Tokyo. It only reveals itself to people who need it, and deals in regrets rather than items. On her first morning as the pawnshop’s new owner, Hana finds it ransacked and an important acquisition is missing, along with her father. This book is filled with whimsy, lovely writing, and the chapters aren’t too long, which made the flow delightful. Truly, I never wanted this book to end; I always drank it in with a warm cup of tea or hot cocoa and was taken on a magical adventure trying to figure out this mystery. I’m kind of jealous of anyone who gets to read it because I wish I could read it for the first time again. If you are looking for a cozy book that gives Ghibli vibes and also has a touch of mystery, romance, and magic, this just might be it!
Where: You can borrow this in regular and large print, as an e-book and e-audiobook from the Monroe County Public Library.
How: You can request books, including e-books and e-audiobooks, by logging in to your account at keyslibraries.org. If you don’t have a card, you can visit your local branch or register online to get one. Questions? info@keyslibraries.org.
Recommended by: Jessica Penepent, library assistant, Big Pine Key library branch.
See previous recommendations at keyslibraries.org/post/shelf-help.
FUNCTIONALLY CAFFEINATED WELLNESS
THE STRENGTH TO BE GRATEFUL (EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OVER IT)
If you’ve lived in the Keys long enough, you know Thanksgiving hits a little differently down here. While the rest of the country is hauling out crock pots and arguing over whose pie crust is superior, we’re over here debating whether Key Deer prefer pumpkin or sweet potato (answer: neither, please stop feeding them), and whether it’s socially acceptable to eat turkey in a bathing suit. Personally, I think the pilgrims would approve. They were all about resourcefulness, and nothing says resourceful like turning a beach towel into a formal napkin.
But Thanksgiving in the Keys brings something else too: the expectation that we should feel deeply and profoundly grateful at every turn.
Cue Hallmark music. Cue pressure. Cue eye twitch.
And listen, gratitude is important. It rewires the brain, it calms the nervous system and it reminds us that even on the days the Wi-Fi and internal peace both drop to one bar, life is still pretty darn gorgeous. But here’s the truth no one wants to say out loud: Sometimes gratitude requires strength — real, grownup, “I don’t feel like it but I’m trying” strength. Thanksgiving is supposed to be about slowing down, but for most adults it feels like a triathlon no one trained for. Event 1: grocery store crowd dodging. Event 2: emotional regulation around relatives. Event 3: pretending your pumpkin pie didn’t just come from Publix.
Among all of that, your nervous system is working overtime. And when the nervous system is overstimulated, we do one very predictable thing: We rush. We rush our meals, our conversations, our decisions and sometimes even our joy.
Strength — real strength — looks like slowing down on purpose. Taking a breath before you react. Pausing before you pour a fourth cup of coffee. Actually tasting your food instead of inhaling it like a competitive eater on ESPN2.
It takes strength to choose presence over autopilot. And yes, I know how cheesy that sounds, but it’s a Thanksgiving article so I get one cheese allowance.
Let’s talk about boundaries, everyone’s favorite holiday side dish. “No” is a full sentence, but it can feel like trying to deadlift a car when the person asking is your cousin, your boss or your neighbor who “just needs a quick favor” that actually takes three hours.
Saying no takes courage, but saying no without guilt? That’s Olympic-level strength.
...is a Marathonbased ACSMcertified personal trainer and precision nutrition coach who owns and operates Highly Motivated Functionally Caffeinated LLC.
When you say no to something that drains you, the nervous system actually shifts into a calmer state. Heart rate drops. Muscles unclench. Digestion improves. Your brain stops flashing the internal sign that reads “We’re doing too much again.”
Ironically, by choosing what you don’t do, you make more room for the things you truly want: peaceful mornings, beach walks, sanity, joy and a Thanksgiving meal eaten while sitting instead of hovering over the counter like a gremlin.
Rest is underrated. It gets pushed to the bottom of the list right under “clean out the junk drawer” and “finally fold that laundry mountain.” But your body is not a machine (even though you treat it like an overworked food processor 11 months out of the year).
Rest is where your muscles repair, your hormones regulate and your mood resets. Rest is also where gratitude becomes easier. It’s very difficult to feel grateful when you’re exhausted and borderline feral.
The strongest people I know aren’t the ones crushing workouts or working 75 hours a week. They’re the ones who know when to tap out, take a breath and refill their own damn cup without apologizing for it.
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring the hard stuff. It’s about noticing the tiny things that make your nervous system sigh with relief. The breeze off the water at sunrise. The way the sky goes cotton-candy pink after a long day. Your dog’s entire body wiggling when you walk in the door. The fact that you live in a place where people wear flip flops to Thanksgiving dinner. Gratitude doesn’t have to be profound. It just has to be noticed.
So give yourself credit for the strength you show every single day — the strength to be human. To feel. To slow down. To set boundaries. To rest. And yes, even to be grateful, in a way that actually feels real.
Happy Thanksgiving, Keys family. May your nervous system be calm, your boundaries be firm, and your turkey be perfectly seasoned.
JENNIFER HARVEY
MARK HEDDEN
... is a photographer, writer, and semi-professional birdwatcher. He has lived in Key West for more than 25 years and may no longer be employable in the real world. He is also executive director of the Florida Keys Audubon Society.
The email came while I was out of town, midway through a long road trip. It was sent to the Florida Keys Audubon Society address, which I try to keep tabs on, and it was a long, detailed description from a visitor named Michael McHugh of a bird he’d seen in Key West that he thought might be a golden eagle.
I skimmed the email while I was standing at a gas pump in Delaware or Maryland.
Golden eagle sounds like a pretty fancy bird, like it’s covered in gilt or something, or maybe a prize given out by the Willie Wonka company. But they are mostly brown with some warm orangey highlights around the head, legs and a few other places that give them their name.
They mostly breed in the western half of the United States and above the Canadian border, and come down or across to winter in the eastern half of the U.S. (They also breed all across northern Eurasia.)
I’ve seen a golden eagle before – once, on a back road in south central Oregon. And I took some pretty solid pictures. But it wasn’t a bird I was comfortable trying to identify on the fly from a written description.
They’ve strayed into Florida a few dozen times, but a golden eagle in Key West would be a big deal as, according to eBird, there are no records of one occurring in the Keys before.
I put the phone back in my pocket, with every intention of sitting down and comparing McHugh’s notes with the images in my Sibley. But the road to hell is paved with good intentions, or at least the 2,000-mile-long road I had to drive to get back to Key West was, and I never got it together to suss it out.
I made it back to Key West around 7 p.m. Friday and my wife and I went straight over to a friend’s house to celebrate his recent good fortune. (Congrats on finally escaping the tyranny of the four-hour work week, BNT.)
Saturday morning, a little after 9, at Fort Zachary Taylor, three Key Westers – Ben Edmonds, Bryan Edwards and Mary Houska –caught sight of an eagle soaring up with the turkey vultures. They also saw the eagle get into a small, midair tiff with a local osprey. They got pictures of the bird – good ones – and a little video.
There are really only two species of birds in North America that look remotely like a golden eagle. The first would be the bald eagle, which as an adult has the clean white head and tail that every ’merican is familiar with, but goes through several phases of general brownness in its first four years of life.
The other species it could possibly be confused with is the turkey vulture, if only for size
HAVE YOU SEEN THE EAGLE?
and a tendency to ride thermals. It was pretty clear from the pictures that the bird didn’t have the dihedral that gives the characteristic V-shape to turkey vultures in flight. Also, the bird’s head wasn’t bald. (Bald as in unfeathered, not bald as in white-feathered, which is where the bald eagle’s name comes from.)
Golden eagles also go through a couple years of brownness, but it’s a different brownness than the bald eagle’s, and the orangey patches are usually pretty obvious. The bird in the photo had two distinct white spots on the undersides of its wings, and the tail was clearly demarcated with a brown outer band and a white inner band, defining field marks for a juvenile golden eagle.
Word began to spread online and Mary, who has clued me in to a few other good birds, was nice enough to message me directly.
I made it over to Fort Zach in the late afternoon and parked in the far lot. The first bird I saw was a northern harrier that came across the open field known as the Back 40, slid through a 180-degree turn and started back. A female American kestrel came out of nowhere and feinted toward the harrier, trying to declare the boundaries of some type of territory, though the harrier seemed non-plussed.
I met up with Ellen Westbrook and we stood out in the field, her dog Che standing patiently with us. (Two people riding by on bikes told us what a good looking boy he was.) The harrier made a few more passes and two kestrels called from opposite ends of the field.
I was out of town when the weather changed, and it was incredibly nice to be standing outdoors while the sun was up and have it be pleasant.
At some point we looked up and caught sight of a huge kettle of turkey vultures streaming in from over the water. How far they had ventured out over the water was hard to say, but they kept coming and coming. I’d
guess there were 500 of them, all of which we scoured for eagle-ness, none of which looked like anything other than turkey vultures.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to go back on Sunday, but then Mariah Hryniewich and Luis Gles, friends who have both counted for the Florida Keys Hawkwatch, texted saying they were in Havana at the moment doing some bird work, but would be landing in Miami around 9 and then heading down to look for the eagle.
I met up with them around 1 p.m. and we stood out in the same part of the field. The same northern harrier cruised over the field and along the moat. The same two kestrels klee-kleed from the different ends of the park.
Things got somewhat lively when a great white heron picked a fight with a great egret, and the two swirled around each other in the sky for a few moments, but the heat soon went out of the dispute and they both settled back down into the trees.
The kettle of 500 turkey vultures drifted over the island like a plume of smoke over a moving fire. Vultures flew, joined and left the kettle from every different direction, leaving a lot of birds to keep track of, none of which looked to be golden eagles.
After an hour or so a bird with broad, flat wings came in off the water, flying low over the pines. An eagle. But as it got close, the bird’s white head and tail became obvious, making it one of the rare times a bald eagle was a disappointment.
We spent a few more hours looking, with no luck, and Mariah and Luis went back the next day and with a further lack of luck.
I have a little faith that the golden eagle, a bird this far out of its usual habitat, is going to be seen again. It just means that I’m going to have to pay attention to every turkey vulture I see, hoping it’s not a TV.
There are worse fates.
FILLING PAGES WITH HISTORY
Iwas sitting at my desk signing books, filling orders placed by Shell World, the Kayak Shack at Robbie’s, the Oldest House Museum and the Key West Island Bookstore. My wife put her hand on my shoulder. “That must feel good,” she said. “Signing your books.”
The idea of it is everything. When I left Southern California in 1989, the only plan was to live on an island and write. Except for six years in the middle, when I went back to school, it has been a successful adventure. I’m signing books, and the column I’ve been writing for the last decade is currently in front of you.
museums up and down the Keys that support my work. However, the actual signing comes with a bit of trepidation because I have the penmanship of a 4-year-old.
What I love most of all is telling the stories that fill those books. My introduction to the island chain was Joy Williams’ excellent work “The Florida Keys.” It was my first course: Florida Keys 101. I was hooked, not just by the brilliance of the island chain but by the stories she told about it. There has been no greater influence on my work than Joy Williams.
of the modern highway, which roughly follows the route the train used to take over most of the Keys. There are a couple of obvious exceptions, like Bahia Honda, where the original line traveled through what is now Bahia Honda State Park. There is a good reason the bed is raised and ditches have formed along most of what is today the highway, and increasingly so as the line approaches the bridges connecting one island to the next. The locomotive required a gradual grade over which to pull the train cars between the mainland and Key West.
I love the idea of signing books, but not the physical act of moving the pen across the page. For those of you who have not had the pleasure of deciphering my handwriting, sometimes I even have a hard time reading what I’ve written. As someone taking notes about history, it is a horrible trait. Fortunately, those notes were taken from the historical record and have, at the very least, a secondary verification.
Back in my days taking lunch and dinner orders at the restaurant, there were times when I could not read what I had chicken-scratched onto my waiter’s pad (blessed by the keyboard and computer screen). More than once, my interpretation of what I thought I wrote proved not to be what the customer ordered.
Michelle is right. It does feel good. I love having books to sign, knowing people buy them and receiving orders from the wonderful shops and
When I was introduced to Williams’ book, I was working on my master’s in creative writing at the University of Miami, and driving down to the Keys from my SW 92nd Avenue apartment for day trips and the occasional weekend. I didn’t see the same things then that I do now, 24 years later. The longer I live here and the more I learn about the history, the more I see — even from the seat of the Jeep while traveling a little over 45 mph along the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway.
Some things are obvious and stand out like the world-famous Caribbean Club, the old Bahia Honda railroad bridge (especially when the sun is sinking behind it) and the Alligator Reef and Sombrero Key Lighthouses standing up against the horizon. There are six iron reef lighthouses; two are visible from some of the highway bridges.
Other history reveals itself with more subtlety. One of my favorites is the remnants of the right-of-way of the Key West Extension of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway. It took years of hard labor and dynamite to clear the land and build a path down which the train would steam, rock and roll across the island chain. Their efforts and much of the bed on which Flagler’s right-of-way was built are hiding in plain sight beneath the asphalt of the highway.
It is easiest to see from the southbound lane
Once you start to see it, the railroad right-ofway materializes. I love what studying the local history has revealed to my curious eyes. Because I have worked so hard to understand how and why the Keys are what they are today, I probably see more than most people. Also, I am actively seeking landmarks and historical evidence, and for the last 10 years, I’ve been sharing my observations in this history column.
This will be the last one for 2025. It requires a tremendous amount of time and commitment, and I need to take a break. It might be that I need a month off to catch up on other projects and not feel the heat of a deadline. It might be that I need longer. Also, it is becoming increasingly apparent that Volumes 4 and 5 of my history series have no plans to finish all by themselves, and until they get done, I can’t get back to the project I really want to dive into.
I’m not sure what 2026 has in store. I love sharing this column, and from what I’ve been told, there are people out there who like to read it. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to tell me so. That part is super cool. In the meantime, enjoy the festivities of this last stretch of 2025. This Thanksgiving, I’ll be thankful for everything that I have. I hope you are, too. Happy Holidays.
Creating the right-of-way for Henry Flagler’s Key West Extension circa 1906. JERRY WILKINSON COLLECTION/Contributed
Brad is a local historian, author, speaker and Honorary Conch who loves sharing the history of the Florida Keys.
FLORIDA KEYS HISTORY WITH BRAD BERTELLI
Rotary
Club of Marathon
Celebrates Growth
and Welcomes New Members
The Rotary Club of Marathon is celebrating a year of remarkable growth, welcoming 19 new members to the organization in 2025. This includes the founding of the new Companion Club, a flexible evening group designed to make Rotary more accessible for busy community members.
With 87 total members now, 74 in our traditional club and 13 in the Companion Club, Marathon Rotary is stronger than ever.
The founding Companion Club members include Tamara Collins, Mildrey Exposito, Marlisa Garreמּ, Brenda Hill, Bill Kelly, Jacob Long, Susan Lovely, Kiki McIntyre, Cynthia McPherson, Darby Sheehan, Danay Voiles, and John Voiles. These new members are helping shape a new, flexible format for Rotary service that fits modern schedules while maintaining the same spirit of fellowship and service.
In addition, several new members were also welcomed at the traditional lunch club, including Kathleen Pouser, Alex Wellbaum, Wendy Gates, Carol Shaמּuck, Kacey Hunt, Kris DiGiovanni, Sean McDonald, Tom Tracy and Mike Millard.
“This incredible growth shows that the spirit of service is alive and well in Marathon,” said Club President Mary Ann Royse. “Each new member brings fresh energy, ideas, and heart to our mission of doing good in the community.”
To learn more about the Marathon Rotary Club visit marathonrotary.org.
The traditional lunch group meets Wednesdays at noon usually at Courtyard Faro Blanco and the Companion Club is meeting on second and fourth Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. at Barracuda Grill.
Since adding the Companion Club, the Marathon Rotary Club is now the 4th largest club in the district!
Both clubs have great speakers and camaraderie at the meetings, and also schedule fun events like golf tournaments, clothing swaps, beach cleanups, Key West field trips, and more. This is in addition to hosting the annual 4th of July celebration at Sombrero Beach and being supporters at local events like Key Colony Beach Day and Marathon Seafood Festival. Come join us to learn more and be a part of something that makes the community stronger.
For more information on what we do and how you can join the “Irresistible Marathon Rotary Club”, visit our website Marathonrotary org or scan the QR Code.
THIS WEEKS ENTERTAINMENT
THURSDAY, NOV 27
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! CLOSED
FRIDAY, NOV 28
DOTTIE KELLY BAND 8PM
SATURDAY, NOV 29
GLENN HARMAN BAND 8PM
SUNDAY, NOV 30
TONY MANFREDI 3PM
DOCKSIDE SUNAY JAM 7PM
MONDAY, DEC 1
JOHNNY LIVE 3PM BITTER CREEK 6:30PM
TUESDAY, DEC 2
TACO TUESDAY ALL DAY
COUNTRY NIGHT WITH JIBSEA COWBOYS 7:30PM
WEDNESDAY, DEC 3 JOHN BARTUS 5:30PM
Florida Keys Arts Council seeks
grant proposals
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts is seeking Monroe County arts and cultural organizations and artists of all genres to apply for two grant opportunities. The deadline for Artist in Schools and special project grants is Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. Applications are at www.keysarts.com under the grants tab or on the link on the homepage. The Artists in Schools Grant program (up to $2,000 per request) invites teaching artists in the performing, visual, literary or historical arts into the classroom. All Monroe County public and private schools, as well as other organizations that serve children ages 5-18, are eligible to be partners for the teaching artist. This application is for the spring 2026 semester. Special project grants are intended for arts organizations or individual artists in Monroe County. The grant is to provide short-term support to vital, creative projects that do not fit into the other grant categories. Special project funding is limited to once in three years, up to $2,000 per request. More information is available at 305295-4369 or by email to director@ keysarts.com.
Recycle holiday lights at Home Depot
Monroe County and the City of Key West are teaming up with Home Depot this holiday season to help residents responsibly recycle old or broken holiday string lights. Through Jan. 15, holiday lights can be dropped off to bins located at Home Depot stores in Marathon and Key West for recycling. String lights, rope lights and holiday light strands often contain materials that can be recycled, but they do not belong in curbside recycling carts. The collection bins offer a convenient way to keep these items out of the landfill and ensure they’re processed properly.
Join the Elks Club for breakfast specials
The community is invited to join the Marathon Elks Club at 8239 Overseas Highway each Sunday for weekly breakfast specials, served from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Every $10 plate served helps support the Elks’ local charitable efforts. All are welcome.
Community
choir and orchestra host Christmas music celebration
The Lower Keys Community Choir and Keys Chamber Orchestra invite the community to join them for a Christmas musical celebration. Experience the joy of the Christmas season through music to lift the spirits and celebrate the hope of the
season. The concert will be presented on three days at 7:30 p.m.: Dec. 9 at Big Pine United Methodist Church, Big Pine Key; Dec. 10 at Venture Out Christian Church, Cudjoe Key; and Dec. 11 at San Pablo Catholic Church, Marathon. The evening of music is free, and all are welcome. A free will offering will be collected.
Manatee naming contest enters second phase
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon has entered the second phase of a contest to name a rescued male manatee, found suffering from buoyancy issues in the South Sound Creek in Key Largo on May 5. From a first round of suggestions, two finalists were selected: Luca and Giuseppe. The general public can vote for their favorite name through Saturday, Nov. 29, when the winning name will be officially chosen. To vote, scan the QR code.
Lazy River Luau supports Forgotten Felines
Forgotten Felines of the Florida Keys will host a Lazy River Luau for the Paws on Saturday, Nov. 29 to benefit the nonprofit’s efforts to feed, care for and protect the Middle Keys’ community cats. From 5 to 8 p.m. at the Lazy River Vacation Rental, 575 105th Street Ocean West in Marathon, the event will feature chef-prepared hors d’oeuvres, a DJ and a fire dancer performance along with a cash bar and access to the pool. “Uncaged” 2026 boudoir art calendars will be available for purchase. Tickets are $50 per person, available by scanning the QR code.
BBQ teams wanted for January contest
The city of Marathon, in partnership with the Mid-Keys Booster Club, will host a barbecue pork butt contest and community cookout –“Sauced and Tossed” – on Saturday, Jan. 31 from 3 to 6 p.m. The city is seeking teams to enter the competition, with a $100 entry fee and a minimum of $500 in winnings guaranteed for first place. Teams may set up and begin smoking Friday night. Registrations are due by Jan. 10. For questions, call 305-289-4109 or email events_committee@ci.marathon.fl.us. Scan the QR code to register.
ROCKY
11-year-old male terrier mix.
Looking for: Someone to cuddle and hug.
Turnoffs: I don’t like to be alone.
TAKE ME HOME
Adorable furry faces are waiting for families at the Florida Keys SPCA
Keys Weekly is thrilled each week to showcase some “furever” friends that are ready, waiting and available for their perfect adoption “match” at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus –complete with their best qualities, preferences and turnoffs to ensure the best fit.
From cats and dogs to Guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, reptiles and birds, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at one of the SPCA’s two campuses, in Key West and Marathon. The SPCA’s knowledgeable staff will help with advice and care tips while working to ensure a good fit between each pet and its people.
See all the animals waiting for a home at fkspca.org. To contact the Marathon campus, call 305743-4800 or visit 10550 Aviation Blvd.
BO
5-month-old labradoodle mix.
Looking for: Everything is new to me, so take it slow. Turnoffs: Leashes are weird and potty training is hard, but I’m getting there.
FRACK
3-month-old male kitten.
Looking for: My first home. I’m excited to meet my new family.
Turnoffs: Nothing, I’m just a baby.
CHRIS McNULTY
is an astrologer, wanderer, bartender and advocate for queer justice. He is a loquacious Gemini with a cozy Cancer rising. Find him at hearthandheraldastrology.com
Last Friday, the sun moved into the sign of Sagittarius, ushering in the beginning of the end of the darkest part of the year. During Scorpio season, we sit with heavy emotions and our harder truths, giving them the time, space and respect they deserve. We take accountability for our mistakes and acknowledge our fallibility. As we enter Sagittarius season, however, we are reminded we cannot sit in the darkness all the time. Hope returns because we can see the light in the distance. Sagittarius pushes us forward to new adventures, inspires fresh willpower and pushes us to fight for what we believe in. We are in the season before the solstice, and we are tapping into our resilience. On Thanksgiving this year, Saturn, the planet of authority and boundaries, stations direct in the sign of Pisces. For the past four and a half months, Saturn has been retrograde, encouraging us to question and analyze the institutions that we interact with, to reconsider where our boundaries lie with other people, and to better use the word “No” as a complete sentence. As Saturn stations direct, we can start putting all of these lessons into practice.
Here are your horoscopes for the beginning of Sagittarius season and Saturn turning direct. Read for your rising and sun signs.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Happy birthday season, Sag, The light of the sun is shining on you, and it is time for you to revel in appreciation for all that you are. This is the season for you to show out. It is time to set your plans into action at home, setting the terms and conditions for what you need to be more authoritative about
your personal, private time. You set your own rules, and they will serve as your foundation.
CAPRICORN
Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
How can you communicate your needs and boundaries more effectively? Being an authority about your own skills requires clear and concise communication, and this sky encourages you to do just that. Invest some time and energy in your peace and quiet, and pay attention to how you fill your own cup. Time spent alone is fruitful for you now, so enjoy the solitude when you can find it.
AQUARIUS
Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
This is your social season, Aquarius. You can clearly see the people who make up your support system, so turn your attention to those folks and give them your attention. Reciprocity with your friends will help you work toward your goals. Getting really solid in your personal values will help you to set achievable financial goals right now, so trim your spending where needed.
PISCES
Feb. 19 - March 20
Self-respect is the name of the game right now. You are the decider for what you need, and setting some personal boundaries will help you feel more secure. Don’t be afraid to say no to things that do not resonate with your identity. Some clarity is coming to you at work, and you are standing out. Accept your accolades and take on a greater role if it is offered.
ARIES
March 21 - April 19
However you practice your personal spirituality, it is time to get serious about it. Give your meditations or prayers or rituals some extra gravity under this sky. Re-commit to your spiritual wisdom practices and set time aside for engaging with them. Your next
adventure is becoming clearer, whether it is a trip abroad or a new course of study. Trust what you see on the horizon.
TAURUS
April 20 - May 20
You are being offered the chance to reconnect with collaborators who bring greater abundance to your life. Be discerning about who you allow to support you, because not everyone has your best interest at heart. You get to choose who you welcome into your social and professional sphere. You can see what you should be investing your time and energy into, so trust your gut.
GEMINI
May 21 - June 20
Who are your important partners, Gemini? This sky encourages you to get clear about whom you consider to be your special confidantes, your ride-or-dies, or your kindred spirits. Honor them by giving them your undivided attention. Also, it is time to put your career goals into practice with a cunning and focused plan. Hone your focus and get to work pursuing your dreams.
CANCER
June 21 - July 22
Trying something new can be really scary, but knowing that can help you to step into an exciting new adventure despite the fear. Being afraid means that you care. Now is the time to face your fear and dive in with gusto. Go for it. You are probably also realizing it is time to set up solid routines and wellness habits to ensure that you are operating at your best.
LEO
July 23 - Aug. 22
You cannot give when you are feeling depleted. Whether you have reached that point or not, it is time to set some boundaries around where you are investing your energy so you can share your resources in a renewable manner.
HOPEFUL BOUNDARYMAKING
Doing this will help you to spend more time doing what you love and nurturing your own creativity. Find your balance in giving and taking.
VIRGO
Aug. 23 - Sept. 22
Shine some light on your home and family by giving them extra attention now. Honor your roots, be with your tribe, and call them in. You may also find that you need to set some healthy boundaries with a partner. Doing so with care can help make your connection even deeper, so don’t be afraid to talk about your needs and set some ground rules.
LIBRA
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23
Pay some extra attention to your everyday world right now. It is so easy to get caught up in the routine of everyday life that you forget to see the everyday magic that surrounds you. Explore your neighborhood and community with fresh eyes to revive your gratitude. It is also a perfect time to engage in some new routines that will stabilize and energize your wellbeing.
SCORPIO
Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Give your creative pursuits some extra time and attention. Setting up structures and putting boundaries in place that give you the wherewithal to engage in your joyful activities will set you up for success. What you value and how you manage your financial well-being is in the spotlight. Check your budget to make sure that you are honoring your personal needs.
TRAILER REPAIRS &
FICTITIOUS NAME
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Golden Buffalo Sports Grill located at 103360 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 intends to register the said name with the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, FL.
By: Cross Key Holding
Publish: November 27, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE
Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts will hold the following meetings via Communications Media Technology using a ZOOM webinar platform. The access points to view the Zoom meetings or for members of the public to provide public input will be:
JOIN ZOOM via the Zoom app and use each meeting ID and password listed. Meetings are open to the public, and all are invited to attend. Questions, or to RSVP, please email Liz Young at director@keysarts.com
Membership Committee
Meeting
December 3, 2025, at 10:00
AM Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 83426481409?pwd
=bAa02HW6udj7
MpwWXLa4Two7iQ5qHZ.1
Meeting ID: 834 2648 1409
Passcode: 287548
Art In Public Places
Committee Meeting
December 16, 2025, at 4:00
PM Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 82391660246?pwd
=05fF5N6P7F9sA4
RXSbvwXB4dGJlhJP.1
Meeting ID: 823 9166 0246
Passcode: 264470
Executive Committee Meeting
December 18, 2025, at 3:00
PM Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom. us/j/ 84711045271?pwd
=OtnOOOftvUbiE6
CqB9SnSZNGHtNS7T.1
Meeting ID: 847 1104 5271
Passcode: 882876
Publish: November 27, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA
PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO: 2025-000092-CP-02 SECTION: PMH05 IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN D. DANNELLY, JR Deceased.
__________________/ FORMAL NOTICE TO: PATRICK MICHAEL DANNELLY 555 OCEAN WAY KEY LARGO, FL 33037 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a PETITION FOR SUMMARY ADMINISTRATION and a PETITION TO DETERMINE HOMESTEAD STATUS OF REAL PROPERTY have been filed IN THE ELEVENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MIAMIDADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, PROBATE DIVISION. You are required to serve written defenses on the undersigned within 20 days after service of this notice, exclusive of the day of service, and to file the original of the written defenses with the clerk of the above court either before service or immediately thereafter. Failure to serve and file written defenses as required may result in a judgment or order for the relief demanded in the pleading or motion, without further notice.
Dated: October 28, 2025. Respectfully, Carlos Linares, Esq. Florida Bar No. 1051061 Sylvana Rosende, Esq. Florida Bar No. 1025248 ROSENDE PAUL PLLC.
Attorneys for David Sean Dannelly 8200 NW 41st Street, Suite 318 Doral, FL 33166 Phone: (305)701-2099 carlos@rosendepaul.com sylvana@rosendepaul.com
Publish: November 6 , 13, 20 & 27, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2023-CA-747-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of December 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5824, Week 30, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I, II entered in a case pending in said Court, the 4TH day of November 2025 Style of which is:
WINDWARD POINTE II, LLC, A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST MARY ANN AMARAL, DECEASED; BRIAN PARICK AMARAL, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARY ANN AMARAL; AND MARY CLAIRE AUAYANG, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO MARY ANN AMARAL
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2023-CA747-K
WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 10TH day of November 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida
By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: November 27 and December 4, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-688-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of December 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E23, Week 1, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of October 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. JOAN ELAINE FARINACCI AND ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST JOAN ELAINE FARINACCI, DECEASED
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC688-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 31TH day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish:
November 27 and December 4, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-658-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of December 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit E23, Week 46, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM
SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) II entered in a case
pending in said Court, the 9TH day of October 2025
Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST JOHNSIE H. HUDSPETH, DECEASED AND DANA SHEPHERD, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO JOHNSIE H. HUDSPETH
Defendant
And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC658-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 31TH day of October 2025
KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod
Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: November 27 and December 4, 2025
The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA
CASE NO.: 2024-CC-658-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE
SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of December 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit:
Unit C22 Week 48, Beach House, a Condominium according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1510, Page 225, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits attached thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”).
Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AS TO COUNT(S) I entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of October 2025 Style of which is: BEACH HOUSE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A NONPROFIT CORPORATION UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA
Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST WILLIAM GERSTNER KUESTER, DECEASED; JENNIFER MERTZ, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO WILLIAM GERSTNER KUESTER; AND JEFFREY KUESTER, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO WILLIAM GERSTNER KUESTER
Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC658-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 31TH day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: November 27 and December 4, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO.: 2024-CC-569-K NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE BY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Kevin Madok, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, will, on the 15TH day of December 2025 at 11 o’clock a.m., at 500 Whitehead Street, Monroe County, in the City of Key West, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best bidder for CASH the Following described property situated in Monroe County, Florida, to wit: Unit 5813, Week 13, Annual Windward Pointe, a Leasehold Condominium (“Condominium”), according to the Declaration of Condominium thereof recorded in Official Records Book 1803, Page 844, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida, and all exhibits thereto, and any amendments thereof (the “Declaration”). Pursuant to IN REM SUMMARY FINAL JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE entered in a case pending in said Court, the 9TH day of October 2025 Style of which is: WINDWARD POINTE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION OF KEY WEST, INC., A CORPORATION NOT-FORPROFIT UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Plaintiff vs. ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN PARTIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST AS SPOUSE, HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES, ADMINISTRATORS OR AS OTHER CLAIMANTS, BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST SHEENA HOULT SHUMATE, DECEASED AND TERRY GALLAGHER, AS POTENTIAL HEIR TO SHEENA HOULT SHUMATE Defendant And the Docket Number of which is Number 2024-CC569-K WITNESS my hand and the Official Seal of Said Court, this 31TH day of October 2025 KEVIN MADOK Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod Deputy Clerk Florida Statute 45.031: Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than the property owner as of the date of the Lis Pendens must file a claim within 60 days after the sale. Publish: November 27 and December 4, 2025 The Weekly Newspapers
AUTOS ALL YEARS! Junk or Used Cars, Vans, Trucks. Runs or Not.$CASH 305-332-0483
AUTOS FOR SALE
2013 Cadillac ATS, 125k miles, needs tires & A/C, 2 owners, serviced at dealership. Located in Marathon.
$4,000 Contact: yogaforpeacellc@yahoo.com
PLACE YOUR AUTO FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
BOAT MISC. FOR SALE
Two 425 XTO Yamaha outboard motors for sale. Low hours, excellent condition, professionally maintained. $30,000 for both. Located in Marathon. Call for details 305-747-4227
BOATS FOR SALE
GREAT DEAL: Key Largo 21' Deep V Center Console w/trailer. New 150hp motor & electronics. $15,000 Located in Marathon. 201-696-8906 SOLD !!!
PLACE YOUR BOAT FOR SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
BOAT SLIP FOR RENT
Boat Slip For Rent in Key Largo - Oceanfront Marina - Up to 46’ x 11.5’ - $20/ft/month. No Liveaboards. 330-219-5313
Dockage up to 60’ Islamorada - Bayside, 50 amp service. Call 860-982-4517
Boat dockage, 29th Street Canal, Marathon. Up to 33' - water & electric. 305-240-3270
Boat Dockage for rent in Marathon. Private bay bottom, up to 40' boat, self containing, offshore water, car & dingy parking space provided. 305-610-8002
EMPLOYMENT
NIGHT MONITORFREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility in Marathon. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
Retail - Tues-Sat 3:00 pm-9:00 pm in Marathon. Must be able to lift large boxes of tee shirts. More hours available if needed. Inside Airstream with AC. Email Carolynsparkyslanding@aol.com
Handyman needed for residence in Marathon. High Pay! Call: 305-395-0478 bbrayman@proton.me
Boat rental company in Marathon looking for help with boat detailing & boat cleaning. Call 305-481-7006
The Housing Authority of the City of Key West now hiring the following positions: Full-time Carpenter, Electrician & Housing Assistant. To apply, please contact Human Resources at: wrightk@kwha. org or 305-296-5621 ext. 224. Applications are available at the Administrative Office located at 1400 Kennedy Dr., Key West, FL 33040 or online at www.kwha.org - EOE & Drug Free Work Place. This opportunity is covered under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968.
Serve/Bartend on the ocean! The Cabana Club, an ocean front private swim club is seeking a customer service-oriented Server/ Bartender. Serve on pool deck, beach and/ or bar lounge. Open year round, 9:30am7pm daily. Full time/ Part time. Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave.
Maintenance Manager needed. The Cabana Club, a private membership swim club, is seeking a full time, hands-on Maintenance Manager. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: pool maintenance (training can be provided), general plumbing and electric, light carpentry, opening and cleaning daily, general "handyman skills". Qualified person is organized, works well independently and observes surroundings in need of attention. Great pay plus benefits. Apply in person at 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call 404-2193359 and ask for Dave HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!
PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
Having Fun in the Middle Keys
PRIVATE COLLECTOR
WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches. Old Model Military
Clocks & Watches. Call 305-743-4578
HOUSING FOR RENT
NIGHT MONITORFREE Private Room in exchange for overnight availability at our Assisted Living Facility in Marathon. 5 nights on, 5 nights off 10pm-8am plus weekly stipend, Drug & background screen required. www.westcare. com/join-our-team/
2 Bedroom - All new - AND - StudioFurnished - Available for rent in Marathon. Section 8 ok. Call for pricing. 305-610-8002
PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-7430844 or Email: Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
2-3BR/2BA Beautiful home for year-round rental on Duck Key. Furnished, full size W/D, stainless steel appliances & granite countertops. Gorgeous pool with builtin bar stools, waterfall & Jacuzzi, 1 car garage, and covered porch for outdoor dining w/views of the canal. $3,800/ month. Avail. Dec. 1st. Address: 243 W. Seaview Dr, Duck Key, MM 61. Text/call 774-263-8759 Email: dongamache@ comast.net RENTED IN LESS THAN 4 WEEKS!!!
2BR/2BA with outdoor patio for rent in Marathon. $2,100/month F/L/S Taking applications. 305-849-5793 RENTED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!!
PLACE YOUR HOUSING FOR RENT AD HERE. $25/ week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email: Anneke@ KeysWeekly.com
VACATION RENTAL
Key West House For Rent - 28 day
Recently renovated. 2 Units:
or 2BR/2.5BA. 1 block to Schooner Wharf @ Historic Seaport. Starting $214/night. Sweet CarolineSeaport.com
SARA’S ESTATE SALE @ CANALFRONT HOME on Big Pine Key @ 29462 Geraldine St.,Fri, Nov. 28 & Sat, Nov. 29 from 9a-1p both days. Lots of standouts in this sale for longtime local: Ryobi tools & lawnmower, MidMod dining table & chairs, Pebble Beach Fostoria orange glasses & Russell Woodward 70’s spun fiberglass outdoor set. Plus outstanding antique rounded glass hutch & 2 craftsman oak dressers. Also, old coins, stained glass, art, kayak, bike, work tables, shelves, books, reclining couch, 4-pc queen bed set, silverplate tableware, pots, plants & bar stools.
Follow the signs, park with consideration. More photos at estatesales. net. (Take Key Deer Blvd to Big Pine Street to Koehns Ave to Geraldine St, follow signs).
First Annual Community Yard SaleSat. Dec. 13 starting at 9am. Behind the Airport in Marathon - start on Porpoise Drive and work your way around!
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
PLACE YOUR YARD SALE AD HERE. $25/week for up to 5 lines of copy! Call 305-743-0844 or Email Anneke@ keysweekly.com
NOW HIRING FULL TIME POSITIONS
• EXPERIENCED ACCOUNTING/ BOOKKEEPING
• LICENSED (or will train) ACCOUNT PROCESSOR/ACCOUNT MANAGER
Amazing benefits available that include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Long Term/Short Term Disability, 10+ PAID Holidays PLUS Vacation & Sick Pay, 401K Plan Available, Paid Insurance Licensing/Training, Paid Continuing Education & Bonus Potential (Profit Sharing).
Apply by email Jennifer.Roth@ReganRoth.com
Regan Roth Insurance, 90144 Overseas Highway, Tavernier. Family-owned business that will treat you like family!
Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Transmission & Distribution Department:
3 yrs or more experience required.
IS HIRING IN
SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN
(High Voltage Substation Electrical Technician)
THE UPPER KEYS
ACCOUNTING PERSON
Must have experience with Excel. We are willing to train the right candidate.
Send resume to admin@cbtconstruction.com Or call 305-852-3002
NOW HIRING!
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $46.38/hr. - $51.94/hr.
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
Energy Services, in Key West, Florida, is accepting applications for the following position in its Generation Department:
OPERATOR/MAINTAINER
Starting pay rate for this position, depending on qualifications and experience: $40.15/hr - $44.97/hr
For more information, including job duties and required qualifications, and to apply for the job, please visit their website at www.KeysEnergy.com.
KEYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEYS promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.
Certain service members, veterans, the spouses and family members of service members and veterans, receive preference and priority in employment, and are encouraged to apply for positions being filled.
All positions Monday-Friday with overtime possible. Please apply in person at Charley Toppino & Sons, Inc. 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West. Or contact Cheryl at 305-296-5606 ext. 126 or cheryl@charleytoppino.com
DOLPHIN
DRC provides for the well-being of its employees with
competitive package including: a 401k retirement plan, medical benefits, HSA account, paid holidays/vacation/sick days, an employee assistance program, in addition to, life and disability insurance at no cost to the employee. EOE
We are hiring a Heavy Diesel Mechanic with experience working on John Deere, Caterpillar, Kubota, Detroit Diesel, etc. MondayFriday with some overtime available. Please apply at Charley Toppino & Sons, 129 Toppino Industrial Drive, Key West, ask for Cheryl. 305-296-5606 ext 126
CENTER, Inc.
IS HIRING!
JOIN A HIGHLY EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT HELPING PEOPLE COPE AND CHANGE FOR 52 YEARS!
We provide Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs to the Florida Keys community while valuing and rewarding our employees.
KEY LARGO
Behavioral Health Therapist (CAT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children)
Behavioral Health Counselor (CAT)
KEY WEST
Case Manager (Adult)
Mental Health Technician (PT)
Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) (PT) Crisis Counselor
MARATHON
Mental Health Technician Care Coordinator (PT)
Driver (CDL not required) (PT)
Driver (CDL required) (FT)
Registered Nurse (FT, PT)
*Support Worker (Assisted Living) (PT)
*Behavioral Health Technicians – 3 shifts (FT, PT)
*Night Monitor (ALF – Free Housing vs. Salary)
*No experience required for this position. Will train. A caring heart & helpful hands necessary.
Background and drug screen req. EEOC/DFWP COMPETITIVE PAY! EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS!!! Apply at guidancecarecenter.org - Get Involved/ Join our team/Job Opportunities/location/zip
DUI FRONT DESK CLERK & EVALUATOR/INSTRUCTOR
The Advocate Program DUI school is hiring for part time positions.
Front desk: 3 days a week, high school diploma and computer data entry skills required.
DUI instructors and evaluators: 2 days a week, Bachelors or Masters degree in substance abuse eld required.
Of ce located in Marathon. Contact Marcia at 305-704-0117.
OPENINGS AVAILABLE
PHYSICIAN PRACTICE OPENINGS
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN-PA-C)Surgical, Ortho, Tavernier
- Medical Assistant, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, Upper Keys-Gastro, $5k Bonus
- Medical Assistant, LPN, EMT or Paramedic, Primary Care Marathon, $5k Bonus
MIAMI CANCER INSTITUTE KEY WEST
- Advanced Practice Provider (APRN/PA-C) Medical Oncology, Per Diem
- Pool Radiation Therapist
- Registered Nurse, Oncology, $15k Bonus
TAVERNIER MARINERS HOSPITAL
- Clinical Pharmacist, $5k Bonus
- Cook, Dietary, $5k Bonus
- MC Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, CT Scan, $50k Bonus
- Multi-Modality Imaging Tech, Echocardiography, Per Diem
Key West , Florida with possible occasional travel in the county and outside Salary Range: Commensurate with experience, plus comprehensive benefits including health insurance
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
As General Manager, you will serve as the operational backbone of FIRM, reporting directly to the Board of Directors and collaborating closely with our President on strategic vision.
Strategic Leadership & Operations: Oversee day-to-day operations, including program development, delivery, and evaluation, with a focus on insurance policy research, consumer complaint resolution, and advocacy campaigns.
Financial & Resource Management: Lead budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, including grant procurement and management, fundraising initiatives, and donor stewardship.
Team & Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate relationships with board members, regulators, industry partners, and community stakeholders to amplify advocacy efforts, such as lobbying for consumer-friendly insurance reforms.
Advocacy & Impact Measurement: Spearhead public awareness campaigns on insurance issues (e.g., rate transparency, claim denials), leveraging data-driven insights to influence legislation and corporate practices. Website and Social Media management.
Risk & Compliance Oversight: Ensure organizational adherence to legal, ethical, and regulatory standards, including data privacy in consumer interactions and risk management for advocacy activities. Serve as a key spokesperson, representing FIRM in media, hearings, and coalitions.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Policy, Non-Profit Management, or a related field; Master's or MBA preferred. 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in non-profit management, with at least 3 years in advocacy, consumer protection, or insurance-related roles.
TO APPLY
HOW
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews starting in late November. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your vision for leading FIRM’s next phase, and three professional references as a single PDF. Use the subject line: "General Manager Application - [Your Last Name]." E-Mail address: Mel.Montagne@ioausa.com FIRM is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates with lived experience in underserved communities, as well as those from varied backgrounds in insurance, policy, or non-profit sectors.
Founded by Betty Debnam
Meet the Mountain State
West Virginia, our 35th state, was once a part of Virginia. But when Virginia voted to secede, or leave, the United States in 1863, West Virginia stayed loyal to the Union. It became its own state on June 20, 1863.
About 1.8 million people live in West Virginia. Charleston is the capital, with about 50,000 people.
EARLY HISTORY
Native Americans have lived in the area of West Virginia for thousands of years. Over the centuries, native people were hunters and gatherers, grew corn and other crops, made pottery and built mounds. In 1671, the first Europeans arrived in the region.
NATURAL RESOURCES
West Virginia is known for its natural wonders. It attracts many outdoorloving tourists, especially from eastern cities. It is the only state to rest entirely in the Appalachian Mountains. Mountain biking, hiking, fishing and rock climbing are some favorite activities.
Underground beauty is found in caves such as Seneca Caverns, Smoke Hole Caverns and Lost World Caverns. Organ Cave is the 16th-longest cave in the U.S.
Oil, natural gas, stone and salt are also important resources.
WORKING IN WEST VIRGINIA
The state is the largest producer of coal in the U.S.; the energy from coal powers not only West Virginia but other states. Mining coal has been an important industry for West Virginians for many decades.
People also work in the lumber industry, in agriculture, in health care and manufacturing.
Many world-famous glass studios are in the state, including Blenko in Milton and Fenton Art Glass in Williamstown. The Huntington Museum of Art, the West Virginia Museum of American Glass in Weston and the Oglebay Institute Glass Museum in Wheeling are famous for their exhibits of art glass.
SPORTS
West Virginians are fans of football and basketball teams from West Virginia University and Marshall University. Minor league baseball, hockey and soccer teams also compete in the state.
Words that remind us of West Virginia are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
MINI FACT: Mountain streams draw fishers, who catch catfish, walleye and bass.
WEST VIRGINIANS TO KNOW
• Chuck Yeager is best known for being the first person officially to fly faster than the speed of sound, flying nearly 700 mph in 1947. He became most famous for this feat after author Tom Wolfe wrote about him years later in “The Right Stuff.”
Yeager broke the sound barrier when he was a test pilot for the U.S. Air Force. He had served as a fighter pilot during World War II. He was born in Myra, West Virginia, and grew up in West Hamlin, West Virginia.
• Anna Jarvis helped turn Mother’s Day into a national holiday. She lived in Grafton, West Virginia, and later in Philadelphia. The first national Mother’s Day was celebrated in those two cities in 1908.
• Steve Harvey, a famous comedian and game show host, was born in Welch, West Virginia. His father was a coal miner. Harvey is also an author and has won seven Daytime Emmy Awards. He has hosted a television series for kids called “Little Big Shots.”
RESOURCES
ON THE WEB • bit.ly/3Wuu6OK
AT THE LIBRARY • “Animals of West Virginia!” by Hope Aicher
ECO NOTE
Insects are rapidly disappearing even in places far from farms or cities. A 20-year study of a remote meadow in Colorado found that flying insect numbers have fallen by more than 70%, with hotter summers as the strongest culprit. The discovery adds to mounting evidence that climate change is eroding biodiversity on a global scale, undermining food webs and threatening species that rely on insects for survival. Their decline has farreaching consequences for agriculture and human health.
photo by Anthony
photo by
Valerius Tygart
photo courtesy
Oglebay Institute
photo courtesy Library of Congress
photo by Angela George
The “organ” formation aat Organ Cave in West Virginia.
Blowing glass at the Oglebay Institute Glass Museum.
